The association between preoperative multiparametric MRI-defined prostatic apex shape and urinary continence recovery after radical prostatectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies
摘要
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between preoperative multiparametric MRI-defined prostatic apex shapes (categorized as Lee types A, B, C, and D) and the recovery of urinary continence following radical prostatectomy (RP).
MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted up to November 1, 2025, across four electronic databases: MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase. Comparative studies reporting hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for continence recovery relative to a reference apex type were included. Pooled hazard ratios were calculated using appropriate statistical models.
ResultsSeven cohort studies, comprising a total of 4,669 patients, were included in the quantitative synthesis. Meta-analysis revealed that a Lee type D apex was significantly associated with earlier recovery of urinary continence post-RP compared to other types (pooled HR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.16–1.48, p < 0.001). In contrast, no significant associations were found for type B (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.81–1.09, p = 0.411) or type C (HR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.85–1.20, p = 0.897) when each was compared against type A. The significant advantage of type D remained consistent across all pre-specified subgroup analyses. Within study design subgroups, significant results were observed in both retrospective (HR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.12–1.44) and prospective studies (HR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.23–3.07). Similarly, geographic subgroup analyses confirmed this association in cohorts from Italy (HR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.11–1.49), Germany (HR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.03–1.61), and Korea (HR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.56–4.11).
ConclusionPreoperative MRI-based identification of a Lee type D prostatic apex is a significant and reproducible predictor for faster recovery of urinary continence after RP. This morphological feature may serve as a valuable preoperative imaging biomarker for patient counseling and surgical planning.